A Livingston Community Wing is set for a £20,000 refurbishment after winning a competition held by contractor Novus to celebrate its 5th birthday.

Barbara Boertien, Community Engagement Officer at Almond Housing Association, who nominated the wing for the prize, said: “The Riverside Community Wing has played a vital role in helping the town’s young people for the past 50 years. However, in its history it has only undergone minimal repairs and maintenance works.

“Novus’ efforts will breathe new life into the space, so young people can benefit. We’re all looking forward to seeing the finished project.”

The firm will be carrying out works to the Riverside Community Wing, which is predominantly used by the West Lothian Youth Action Project to provide support and advice to young people aged between 10 and 21.

Once completed the building will provide a space for young people to engage in training workshops, summer activities and music projects. It will also be used to provide a mentoring service to vulnerable youngsters, act as a diversion from crime and anti-social behaviour and to distribute surplus food to people in the community.

Works on the building include replacing the kitchen, refurbishing the entrance foyer and IT suite and redecorating throughout.

The project has been chosen as part Novus’ ‘Big Five’ initiative to mark its fifth birthday, with £20,000 being spent on individual local community projects across the UK.

Kevin Rhone, head of social value and customer services at Novus, said: “The ‘Big Five’ offers us a really good opportunity to help out in the areas we operate in and deliver a project that will be used for years to come.

“The Riverside Community Wing will provide services and support to young people that will lay the foundations for their future success.”

Our Community Engagement Officer Barbara works in partnership with a range of groups and agencies to provide improved or additional services in areas where Almond tenants live.

To find out more about working with Almond to benefit the community, email Barbara at enquiries@almondha.org.uk